Solvent Exposure

Solvent Exposure Claims

If you have worked with solvents and have developed an illness as a result, JMW can help you claim the compensation to which you are entitled. Our team is highly experienced and will guide you throughout your case. If your health has been compromised due to conditions at your place of work, you are entitled to seek recompense.

Start your claim today by speaking to one of our expert solicitors. Either call us on 0800 054 6570 or complete our online enquiry form and we will be in touch as soon as we can.

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About Solvent Exposure

Solvents are generally liquid substances (although they can be solids or gases), which become a solution by dissolving in one or more substances. As solvents are used to dilute or dissolve other substances, the sort of solvents that are used in an industrial setting can be hazardous, with many of them containing chemicals such as benzene or toluene. It is therefore vital that appropriate precautions are taken when it comes to handling hazardous solvents.

Depending on their toxicity, solvents can affect the body's central nervous system if they are breathed in after they have been evaporated in the air or if they are absorbed through the skin or swallowed.

In the workplace, strict controls should be implemented to prevent workers from being exposed to dangerous solvents. However, some employees may find they are asked to handle solvents without proper training or the correct safety equipment. If this has happened to you and your health has suffered as a consequence, we can help you make a successful claim for compensation.

Employers should provide appropriate ventilation and protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, aprons and respiratory equipment. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations, (COSHH), are designed to help keep people safe in the workplace and safeguard against exposure to dangerous chemicals or substances and their guidance in relation to solvent usage in the workplace should be followed.

Symptoms

The specific symptoms of solvent exposure will depend on the substance someone has come into contact with and the level to which they were exposed. Generally speaking, however, short-term symptoms may include:

Headaches

Nausea

Dizziness

Rash, if the skin has been exposed

These symptoms can be treated if addressed by a doctor; however, they may develop and worsen. Sadly, these symptoms are just the beginning. If an individual is regularly exposed to hazardous solvents, or suffers exposure over a long period of time, they are in danger of developing long-term symptoms, including;

Kidney damage

Liver damage

Sleeping problems

Trouble with concentration

Diagnosis of solvent exposure can be made through tests, in order to provide an accurate indication of the level of exposure.

Analysis of blood and urine samples can also highlight more serious exposure that could potentially lead to damage to the heart, brain or kidneys.

Those Most at Risk

A list published by the Health and Safety Executive states that you are most likely to be exposed to solvents if you work in the following industries:

Chemicals

Pharmaceutical

Paint or ink manufacture

Rubber and plastic production

Textiles

Printing

Engineering

Construction

You may also be at increased risk if you use certain products as part of your work, such as:

Adhesives

Paint removers

Paint

Pesticides

Ink removers

Inks

Varnishes

Toiletries

Why Choose JMW?

JMW has varied and extensive experience in dealing with compensation claims for solvent exposure. We have represented people from all sectors and we can represent you, getting you the compensation you deserve.

We are highly regarded for our proactive approach and we will get you the compensation you deserve. We also believe communication is key, which is why we'll keep you updated throughout your claim and provide the support you need, whenever you need it.

Talk to Us

Contact us today and get your solvent exposure claim underway. Either call us on 0800 054 6570 or complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as we can to discuss your situation in more detail.